HNLC demands speedy peace talks

SHILLONG: Taking into consideration, the delay in starting peace initiatives by the Centre, the banned outfit HNLC in a statement issued, said that they would be compelled to launch an attack on the central forces. This statement came together with them appreciating the State Government for initiating the peace dialogue.

Speaking on behalf of the HNLC, the Publicity Secretary Sainkupar Nongtraw said that they would like to make their stand very clear and the Centre should not keep conditions for peace talks in which case, the HNLC will also not set any pre-conditions.

“We only want to have what is our legitimate right. We are not demanding anything that belongs to others,” Nongtraw said.

He appreciated the developments that have come about with Chief Minister Mukul Sangma and Home Minister Roshan Warjri submitting their recommendations to the Union Home Ministry to initiate peace dialogue with the HNLC and to also appoint an interlocutor for the same purpose.

“The appointment of an interlocutor has been pending since the year 2014. This also reflects on the part of the State Government that it had taken the matter very lightly,” the HNLC publicity secretary said.

“We have strictly complied with the order of the proposed unilateral ceasefire, declared by our leadership. During the proposed ceasefire, the police department has always tried to provoke us with their orchestrated operations,” Nongtraw said adding that the unilateral ceasefire declared earlier was a testament of their unwavering commitment to peace with social justice.